Hotel Aigua Blava

The Hotel Aigua Blava (located on Spain’s most dramatic stretch of coast, the beautiful Costa Brava) has a prime position on a promontory overlooking an incredibly blue inlet dotted with boats and rocky beaches. The Capella family converted their home into a small hotel in 1940 after it was returned to them following the disastrous Civil War. The original owner, the much-loved Xiquet Sabater who warmly welcomed all the guests, died in 1995, but his family has taken over the management and continues to run the hotel in the same friendly manner. Now a fairly large hotel, the Aigua Blava retains the atmosphere of several homes jumbled together around flowered terraces and rinconcitos (little corners). Decorated by family members, each room is unique—from simple to elaborate—and many have sea views and terraces (for a surcharge). Set under a slanted ceiling, the Chez Xiquet room (containing family memorabilia) looks out to a large terrace and a fantastic view. For any room, however, reservations should be made well in advance during high season, as many guests return here year after year for their week or two in the sun. For a relaxing sojourn in an enchanting seaside spot with a family atmosphere, you can’t go wrong at the Aigua Blava.